Apple's new iOS 12 beta image is out and there are a few interesting features already. One notable thing is that Apple seems to be pushing towards 64-bit devices because it has not provided a restore image for 32-bit devices with this beta release. Let's take a look at some of the other changes:

What's New in iOS 12

Here are some of the improvements and bug fixes that can be found in iOS 12, according to the release notes:

Fixes problems with SiriKit car commands.

Fixes problems with VPN services from third parties.

Appears to offer these improvements for 64-bit devices only. (More on that below.)

The Release of iOS 12

The main surprise of iOS 12's release is that it is so far only available to 64-bit devices. This seems to heavily imply that Apple will be cutting off support for several iPhones in the middle of their generational cycle, and ending its support for all 32-bit devices. For many people who bought the iPhone 5 or iPhone 5C, this can come as an unwelcome surprise. Unless Apple restores support to 32-bit devices, those with older iPhones might find themselves having to upgrade very soon.

How to Download the Second Beta of iOS 12

Are you ready to download iOS 12? Here is how you can do this:

Step 1: Back Up iPhone/iPad Data First

Launch iTunes on your PC while your iPhone/iPad is connected.

Click on the device icon. After than, click "Back Up Now."

Next, archive the backup by going to "Preferences," then "Devices," and then right click on your selected backup and choose "Archive."

Note: It's important to have an encrypted backup because this is what will keep your information safe. To encrypt your backup, you can check "Encrypt iPhone Backup." You will be asked to make a password.

Step 2: Register Account for Beta (if you never joined public beta before)

Step 3: Enroll Your iPhone in iOS 12

You'll have to tap "Install" two more times and agree to a terms of service.

Click on "Restart" to restart your device.

Step 4: Install iOS 12

On your iPhone/iPad, go to "Settings > General > Software Update".

Click on "Download and Install".

Enter your Apple passcode.

Click on "Agree" to all of the terms and conditions and tap it again to confirm.

Step 5: Get Started with iOS 12

Once your iPhone or iPad is restarted, it will be running iOS 12. You just need to finish the setup as below:

Tap where it says "Continue."

Put in your Apple ID password, then wait while iCloud updates.

Now tap where it says "Get Started".

How to Downgrade from iOS 12

Downgrading from iOS 12 to an earlier version is inadvisable, since this version comes with a new file system. However, you can downgrade from iOS 12 beta to one of the stable versions a bit more easily, like iOS 11. Here is how to do it:

First back up your iPhone. If you're unsure how to do this, look at the instructions above to make an archived, encrypted backup.

Download (to your PC) the previous version of iOS. Do this by downloading the restore image for the version you want to downgrade to on ipsw.me.

Plug your device into your PC.

Open iTunes.

Click on your device to get to the device summary page. (Make sure you turn off "Find My iPhone" on your device.)